Mazda CX-5 2WD
26.5 MPG The 2021 Mazda CX-5 2WD is EPA-rated at 26.5 MPG combined (24 city / 29.5 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 566 gallons, $1811 a year in fuel, or $0.121 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2013–2021 run it averages 27.9 MPG, falling by 2 MPG over 9 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.094 | $943 | $1415 | $1887 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.113 | $1132 | $1698 | $2264 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.121 | $1208 | $1811 | $2415 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.132 | $1321 | $1981 | $2642 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.151 | $1509 | $2264 | $3019 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.170 | $1698 | $2547 | $3396 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.189 | $1887 | $2830 | $3774 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 26.5 MPG | 24 | 29.5 | $2350 | 339 | 2 |
| 2020 | 28 MPG | 25 | 31 | $2200 | 322 | 1 |
| 2019 | 27.3 MPG | 25.3 | 30 | $2467 | 342 | 3 |
| 2018 | 28.5 MPG | 26.5 | 31 | $2450 | 335 | 2 |
| 2017 | 27 MPG | 24 | 31 | $2300 | 328 | 1 |
| 2016 | 29 MPG | 26 | 33.5 | $2150 | 308 | 2 |
| 2015 | 28 MPG | 25.7 | 32.3 | $2217 | 315 | 3 |
| 2014 | 28 MPG | 25.7 | 32.3 | $2217 | 315 | 3 |
| 2013 | 28.5 MPG | 26 | 33 | $2175 | 309 | 2 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 74 small sport utility vehicle 2wd models tracked here, the Mazda CX-5 2WD ranks 38 on current figures, against a class average of 34.7 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Chevrolet Equinox FWD (27), Jeep Renegade 2WD (27), Mercedes-Benz GLC300 (27), Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ES 2WD (27), Mitsubishi Outlander Sport 2WD (27).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 339 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 5.1 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Mazda CX-5 2WD get?
The 2021 Mazda CX-5 2WD is rated at 26.5 MPG combined by the EPA — 24 city and 29.5 highway. Across all 9 model years in the database it averages 27.9 MPG, ranging from 25 to 29 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Mazda CX-5 2WD cost in fuel per year?
At 26.5 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 566 gallons — roughly $1811 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.121 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2021 model is $2350.
Has the Mazda CX-5 2WD become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 28.5 MPG in 2013 to 26.5 in 2021. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the Mazda CX-5 2WD efficient for its class?
It ranks 38 of 74 in the Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD class on current figures, against a class average of 34.7 MPG. That is 8.2 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.